Utilization of open-source software in teaching the physics of P-N diodes

This paper describes utilizing open-source numerical simulation software, typically used in solar photovoltaics research, as an attractive supplementary educational tool for teaching the underlying physics and operation of P-N junction diodes. Details of educational P-N device models and simulation-based learning scenarios developed for this purpose are provided here. The presented approach allows students to learn the essential concepts related to P-N diodes experientially. These include some frequently observed nonidealities, closely mimicking experimental I-V measurements. Unlike most educational tools in this field, all simulations demonstrated here are performed locally on the student's computer using free and portable software, which eliminates the need for a live internet connection or time-consuming installations, making it easier to implement in a classroom and much more accessible to students. The paper also discusses the implementation of this supplementary tool and reports the results of a survey conducted to measure student satisfaction with it and its implementation approach. The presented method can be adapted to suit the needs of undergraduate and graduate students studying engineering courses that require an introduction to semiconductor devices. The details of P-N diode device models are introduced and discussed so that users can modify them in accordance with their practical or educational purposes.